The SBI Circle Based Officers Recruitment 2025 is now open, and it’s one of the biggest opportunities for aspiring banking professionals this year. The State Bank of India (SBI), India’s largest public sector bank, has announced 2,964 vacancies for the post of Circle Based Officer (CBO) across its various circles. This recruitment drive includes 2,600 regular vacancies and 364 backlog vacancies, and the last date to apply is May 29, 2025.
If you’re a graduate with a couple of years of experience in banking and are looking to level up your career with a stable and prestigious organization like SBI, this is your chance. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the SBI CBO 2025 notification: eligibility, application process, exam pattern, salary, and more.
Key Summary: SBI Circle Based Officers Recruitment 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruiting Organization | State Bank of India (SBI) |
| Post Name | Circle Based Officer (CBO) |
| Total Vacancies | 2,964 (2,600 Regular + 364 Backlog) |
| Application Last Date | May 29, 2025 |
| Qualification | Graduation + Minimum 2 Years Experience |
| Age Limit | 21 to 30 years (as on April 30, 2025) |
| Salary | Starting basic pay: ₹48,480/- plus allowances |
| Official Website | bank.sbi/careers |
What is a Circle Based Officer (CBO)?
A Circle Based Officer is a mid-level position in the SBI hierarchy, placed just above a probationary officer (PO). CBOs are responsible for core banking functions including customer relationship management, credit portfolio handling, branch operations, and ensuring regulatory compliance. They are also expected to be well-versed in the local language of their posting circle.
This role does not involve transfers across circles, making it ideal for candidates seeking location stability. CBOs are placed in their selected circle and work across branches within that region.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Educational Qualification
You must be a graduate in any discipline from a recognized university or an equivalent qualification recognized by the Central Government.
Work Experience
A minimum of 2 years’ experience (as of April 30, 2025) as an officer in a Scheduled Commercial Bank or a Regional Rural Bank (RRB).
Age Limit
Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years old as of April 30, 2025. That means you should be born between May 1, 1995, and April 30, 2004.
Age Relaxation
- SC/ST: 5 years
- OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 3 years
- PwBD: 10-15 years depending on category
- Ex-Servicemen: 5 years
Language Proficiency
You must be able to read, write, and speak the local language of the circle you are applying for. Proof like your 10th or 12th mark sheet showing the language subject may be required.
Application Process
Here’s how to apply for SBI CBO Recruitment 2025:
- Visit the official SBI careers portal: https://bank.sbi/web/careers/current-openings
- Click on “Apply Online” under the Circle Based Officer recruitment section.
- Register using your valid email and mobile number.
- Fill in the online application form carefully.
- Upload required documents including photograph, signature, and ID proof.
- Pay the application fee:
- General/OBC/EWS: ₹750
- SC/ST/PwBD: Exempted
- Submit the application and download a copy for future reference.
Selection Process
1. Online Written Test
The test comprises two parts:
Objective Test (2 hours)
- English Language – 30 questions (30 marks)
- Banking Knowledge – 40 questions (40 marks)
- General Awareness/Economy – 30 questions (30 marks)
- Computer Aptitude – 20 questions (20 marks)
Descriptive Test (30 minutes)
- Essay and Letter Writing – 2 questions (50 marks total)
2. Screening
A panel of officials will screen applications and written exam performance for eligibility.
3. Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be called for a 50-mark interview. A minimum qualifying mark is required to proceed.
4. Local Language Proficiency
Your local language skills will be assessed if not already proven through school certificates.
Salary and Perks
The starting basic pay is ₹48,480 on a scale of ₹48,480–2000/7–62,480–2340/2–67,160–2680/7–85,920.
In addition to the basic pay, employees get:
- Dearness Allowance (DA)
- House Rent Allowance (HRA) or lease rental options
- City Compensatory Allowance (CCA)
- Provident Fund, Medical, LFC (Leave Fare Concession)
- One increment for candidates with 2+ years of relevant experience
This compensation package makes it one of the most lucrative entry-level officer jobs in India.
Preparation Tips
- Understand the Pattern: Practice previous year SBI PO and CBO papers.
- Focus on English and Banking Awareness: These are often scoring sections.
- Work on Letter and Essay Writing: You must write concisely and professionally.
- Practice Interview Questions: Be ready to talk about your past banking experience and current affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can freshers apply for SBI CBO 2025?
No. A minimum of 2 years’ experience in a Scheduled Commercial Bank or RRB is mandatory.
Q2. Is there a transfer policy for CBOs?
No. CBOs are posted within the circle they apply for and are not transferred outside.
Q3. Can I apply for more than one circle?
No. You can apply for only one circle, and multiple applications will be rejected.
Q4. Will there be negative marking in the exam?
As per the latest notification, no negative marking is mentioned for wrong answers.
Q5. What documents are needed during application?
Scanned copies of your photograph, signature, experience certificate, ID proof, and local language certificate if applicable.
